True teachers are bridges...

Last week, as I facilitated new students into the journey of coaching, Nikos Kazantzakis' words resonated so much deeper.

“True teachers are those who use themselves as bridges over which they invite their students to cross; then, having facilitated their crossing, joyfully collapse, encouraging them to create their own.” Coming to think of it, I feel this way, every time I facilitate a workshop.

In all my time in advertising, I always belittled this ability of mine - Teaching. Till, I quit and pursued my heart's calling in becoming a Victory Coach. Do I love standing out there watching those excited and expectant faces, waiting to embark on a trip which will change them in many ways, forever?! Oh, yes!! Damn, right, I do! The butterflies in my stomach play havoc, at every new session. And, even that - I love. It reminds me that I, too am going to experience this new wave that will wash me and my soul.

For a teacher and facilitator, the only high, is knowing that your partners in learning grasp all you share - simply. Their minds though open, are equally sensitive as well as exciting like that little caterpillar learning to crawl.

They resonate with all the experiences you share as you move from one chapter to the next. They put into practice, all that learning, in the little tests you throw at at them, now and then. And, have them responding better than you expected, is pure joy. I enjoy that.

The thrill of all you share as a teacher, gets even more expansive when you see your 'students' transform into pretty butterflies. Yes! That's stimulating, inspiring and way more than satisfying. I speak for the many of those teachers and facilitators out there, who do this relentlessly and daily. Respect, is what I have for you.

Then,there's, also that one teacher (I do pray that tribe is nearing extinction), who is unable to welcome the joy of their students' success and fame. They see it as a threat, when in reality, pride and happiness ought to be the only stimulant such news can bring.

My heart pains for that student who hurts through no fault but being an excellent student who was able to put to practice all that learning with hard work and determination, far stronger than his/her peers. Notwithstanding, the fact, that he/she had an amazing teacher!

And, the pain of that teacher, who brings upon him/herself jealousy and pride displaying the lack of allowance and acceptance they could bring into their life.

Perhaps, as facilitators and teachers, we need reminding, of Nikos' quote:

“True teachers are those who use themselves as bridges over which they invite their students to cross; then, having facilitated their crossing, joyfully collapse, encouraging them to create their own.”

Love and light to all those wonderful students and facilitators of change!

Happiness, to All!